What Causes Red Itchy Rashes On Inner Arms, Forearms And Neck?

Posted on Thu, 8 Jan 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 8 Jan 2015 Answered on

Tue, 27 Jan 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi, I have a red itchy rash on both my inner arms down to my forearms and on my neck. It flares up every so often and also feels like I'm being stuck with needles too. I thought it was just dry skin, but lotion isn't working and flares it up even more.

Answered by Dr. Shafi Ullah Khan (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Eczema. atopy Hydrocortisone + moisturizers

Detailed Answer:
Thank you for asking

I read your question and i understand your concern. Some times rashes with pruritus / itchiness may be tricky. Commonest cause of rash is eczema and atopic dermatitis. Moisturizers and topical hydrocortisone creams are advised. These are available easily over the counter. Add some anti histamines to it and wait and see if it helps. Otherwise a consult to a dermatology clinic would be needed to rule out other possibilities for these pruritic rashes. Meanwhile following measures can help as preventive ones.

Reduce stress
Avoid scratchy materials (for example, wool) and chemicals such as harsh soaps, detergents, and solvents
Moisturize frequently
Avoid sudden changes in temperature or humidity
Avoid situations that cause sweating and overheating.

I hope it helps. take good care of yourself and dont forget to close the discussion please.

Take care.
Khan

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar